The JF-17 Thunder light combat aircraft is a joint development of China and Pakistan. It is equipped with a new radar as well as enhanced electronic warfare capabilities and improved compatibility with avionics. It is expected that the JF-17 Thunder will be a viable export platform. The JF-17 Block III is more competitive than the British F-35B fighter. The aircraft will be equipped with a holographic Head Up Display, (HUD), and AESA radar for enhanced situational awareness.
Joint venture between China Aviation Industry Group (AVIC), and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, the JF-17 is a joint venture. Pakistan Aeronautical Complex has 58% of this work share. Also, the JF-17 is considered to be a low-cost fighter airplane. China has made many advances in aircraft design, and the JF-17 should be an advanced combat aircraft. China and Pakistan want to attract new customers.
2002 was the year that the JF-17 prototype was first designed. This aircraft has an airframe constructed from titanium alloys and aluminium alloys. It has a semi-monocoque design. The JF-17 can transport up to 3,400kg (7,495 lbs) and has eight hardpoints. It has a service ceiling of 55,500 feet. It has an average speed of 1.6 MPH. The aircraft can be fitted with air-to-air missiles. It can also be equipped with glide bombs.
The JF-17 Block III is equipped with a new system for infrared searching and tracking. It also has a digital flyby-wire flight controller system. The aircraft's capability to conduct offensive electronic warfare will be enhanced by the radar and avionics systems. Block-III features a supersonic anti-ship weapon that is thought to be stronger than the JF-17's anti-ship missiles.
A radar warning system detects rocket missiles coming towards the JF-17. The aircraft also includes a data link that exchanges data with other combat aircraft, ground control centers, and airborne early warning and control aircraft. The helmet-mounted display allows the pilot to increase his situational awareness and receive information. Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seats are also available for the pilot.
The JF-17 aircraft is small and has eight hardpoints. These are used for weapons storage. The aircraft can carry up to 3,400 kilograms of weapons, including air-to-air missiles. It also includes a MIL-STD-1760 databasebus to allow compatibility with Western weaponry. The JF-17 also has a self-protection radar blocking pod. The aircraft can also be fitted with a targeting pod that can identify air targets and provide guidance for laser guided weapons. The JF-17 has a range of 20 kilometers. It also has a maximum take-off weight of 13,500 kilograms.
Although it will be the most costly JF-17 variant, the JF-17 Block III would be the most sophisticated. It would be able carry more weapons and would have an AESA radar for enhanced situational recognition.